Tag Archives: boxing

Thrill-a-Minute Kazakh Slugger Bakhtiyar Eyubov Returns to Action This Friday at the Turning Stone Resort Casino

Kazakhstan-born junior welterweight contender Bakhtiyar Eyubov is back with a vengeance and ready to bring his flashy and fan-friendly style to New York boxing fans.

One of the world’s most exciting fighters at 140 and 147 pounds, the entertaining Eyubov will return to action this Friday, January 12, on the untelevised undercard of two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (4-0, 2 KOs) defense of her WBC and IBF titles against undefeated mandatory challenger Tori Nelson (17-0-3, 2 KOs) at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.
Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face Lynchburg, Virginia’s Maurice Chalmers (14-13-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round junior welterweight showdown.
“Training for January 12 has been excellent,” said Eyubov. “I feel in great condition. My opponent has some solid wins against undefeated fighters and brings lots of experience into the ring, but I will be ready for everything.”
The 31-year-old slugger says with all his injury woes behind him, he is looking forward to a big 2018.
“My goal is to make a big jump in my career this year. I want to be set on my path to the title. My style is to please the fans and I want to show them exciting knockouts against the best contenders. I would like to stay active and fight four or five times. Give me the so called “killers” in the division. Line them up!”
Presented by Salita Promotions, Shields vs. Nelson will serve as the headliner of a televised tripleheader on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT).
Also featured on the January 12 telecast, Uzbekistan power-puncher Shohjahon Ergashev (11-0, 11 KOs) will face fellow undefeated and top-10 ranked Sonny Fredrickson (18-0, 12 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio. In the co-feature, Jesse Hernandez (10-1, 7 KOs) will take on Ernesto Garza (9-2, 5 KOs; 1-3 WSB) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are currently on sale for $75 for the first two rows of ringside, $65 for remaining ringside seats and all others priced at $49 and $37, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person or by calling the Turning Stone Resort Box Office at 800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.
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About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the January 12 event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is an award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year level boxing. The January event will mark Turning Stone’s 24th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a leading destination for nationally-televised combat sports. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including four hotels, more than 20 signature restaurants and dining options, two spas, an all-new 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, a cabaret-style Showroom, a 5,000-seat arena, five golf courses, several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues with live entertainment every weekend.

Professional media requesting credentials for must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

SUGAR PROMOTIONS “NEW BLOOD”CARD IN MEXICO, SET FOR FEB 2ND


AGUASCALIENTES, MX (January 9, 2018)
 – Damien Vazquez’ Sugar Promotions, will promote its card titled “New Blood”, featuring Issac “Canelito” Avelar (13-0, 8 KOs), vs. Alejandro Frias (6-2-1, 3 KOs), fighting for the WBC FECOMBOX Featherweight title in a 10-round main-event.  The bout will take place at the Palenque de la Feria in Aguascalientes, Mexico on February 2, 2018.
Issac “Canelito” Avelar, who is managed by Prince Ranch Boxing, is looking to make a statement in his hometown after having his last fight delayed due to a minor hand injury.
“I am ready to show my hometown fans why I will be fighting the best fighters in the world,” said Issac Avelar. “I was supposed to fight last December, but it was delayed, because of a small hand injury. I took that time to improve as a fighter and I am 100% healthy.  Everyone will see the best version of Canelito on February 2nd
“Canelito is a big star in Aguascalientes, Mexico where he was born and raised,” Oscar Vazquez, president of Sugar Promotions stated. “We are excited to put on a show with great local talent.  Canelito is a homegrown hero from Aguascalientes, Mexico and it is exciting to promote such a massive event.  Everyone in town will be here.”
“NEW BLOOD” also features undefeated bantamweight Damien “Sugar” Vazquez (12-0, 6 KOs) vs. TBA, unbeaten super-featherweight Edwing Davila (16-0, 9 KOs), vs. Octavio Guardado, Lightweight Donovan Estrella (10-0, 4 KOs) vs. Antonio Camacho, Mayran Reyes vs. Naomi Arellano, Christina Mora vs. TBA and light heavyweight Kye Brooks (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Ivan Sanchez.  Damian Vasquez has his sights set on fighting McJoe Arroyo(17-2, 8 KOs) before the year is over.
February 2nd is looking to be a great show and I’m thrilled to work with Sugar Promotions,” said Greg Hannely, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “This will be one of the best cards ever put on in Aguascalientes, Mexico.  All my fighters are coming to win and win impressively.”

Danny Garcia vs. Brandon Rios & David Benavidez vs. Ronald Gavril Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 
Garcia vs. Rios & Benavidez vs. Gavril 2 Takes Place Saturday, February 17 live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Chris Farina/Mayweather Promotions
 
Click HERE for Photos from Erick Ramirez/
Premier Boxing Champions
 
LOS ANGELES (January 9, 2018) – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia and former world champion Brandon “Bam Bam” Rios went face-to-face for the first time Tuesday at a press conference in Los Angeles to announce their main event showdown taking placeSaturday, Feb. 17 live on SHOWTIME from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Also in attendance Tuesday were WBC Super Middleweight World Champion David Benavidez and top contender Ronald Gavril, who meet in a rematch of their exciting world title fight from September in the co-feature of the telecast.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available at AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:
DANNY GARCIA
“I feel really good mentally and physically right now. My body is rested and ready to have a great 2018 starting February 17.
“You have to be focused to succeed in a fight like this and I think Brandon Rios knows that. I’m training hard so I hope he is too. I’m never going to take a fight off.
“This is a classic fight of a boxer puncher versus a brawler. I’m going to be prepared for everything and start 2018 off right. I have to be the fighter I’ve always been.
“I’m healthy and strong and ready to fight. I’m putting the loss to Keith Thurman behind me and moving forward. I have to focus on being Danny Garcia on February 17. I can’t press and try to do too much, I just have to get the win.
“We were both champions at the same time at 140-pounds and we didn’t get a chance to fight then, but it’s all about timing in boxing. Things tend to work out and now we’re ready to go head-to-head.
“I never back down and I know that Brandon Rios sees that in me. I always come to fight. It’s going to be a great matchup with our styles and our determination.
“I like watching the last three fights of my opponent. I think it gives me a good indication of what he’s going to look like on fight night. I’ve been watching tape of my last fight too so we can get a great game plan together.
“I felt like I fought a good fight against Thurman. He didn’t really engage. I thought after the fourth round he was basically shadow boxing. I don’t blame him because you have to be dumb to stand in front of me. We’ll make some adjustments and add to what I already do well.
“I haven’t been offered the Shawn Porter fight but I think that would be a great fight. He likes to come forward and I’m a great boxer and counter-puncher. I think the fans would love it, but Shawn Porter should be careful what he’s wishing for.”
BRANDON RIOS
“Everybody knows my style. I’m not here to dance, I’m coming to fight. I’m going in there with my heart out to show the world that I’m still one of the best out there.
“I feel strong and I feel rejuvenated. My body needed some rest because all of my fights are wars. It took a toll on my body and now I feel as good as ever. I’m ready to show the world a different Brandon Rios.
“You have to fight the best to try to be the best. Danny Garcia has been up at the top of this sport for a long time. I’m always ready for a test.
“I used to not always take training and my weight as seriously as I should have. I was young and dumb and I made mistakes. Those mistakes are in my past and I’m in great shape right now.
“I’ve been training really hard to have a full gas tank on fight night. I could have stayed retired but I still have it in me and there is still more I can get out of this sport. I truly love boxing and I’m excited to be back in a big fight like this.
“I’m always confident when I get in the ring. Having Robert Garcia in there is having my brother with me. It’s just another voice that I’m used to and that I trust.
“Being back in the ring was a little bit nerve-wracking but I was happy to get the ring rust off. I did what I had to do and was happy to get through that experience. I’m really thankful to be in this position to fight Danny Garcia.
“I’ve been ready to fight any of the top fighters. I waited and took my time because I knew I would fight whoever would step up. I got what I wanted and now it’s time to take advantage.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I have to make a statement on February 17. I’m leaving Mandalay Bay with the belt on my shoulder. I have to get the knockout and that’s what I’m looking to do.
“It’s been my dream since I was a little kid to unify titles and that’s what I’m working towards now. I want to be one of the best in the history of the weight class and I’m working very hard to accomplish that.
“I’m the youngest super middleweight world champion in history and I’m going to show Gavril why. I’m extremely motivated to look even better than last time and get the knockout.
“I grew up in the era where everybody fought everybody. There was so much energy and excitement with each fight and that’s what I’m looking to bring to fans. This is going to be a great fight that you don’t want to miss.
“I feel like I won the first fight clearly. Gavril thinks he’s going to come and knock me out now, but if he has so much confidence, he should have done that in the first fight. I’m training extremely hard right now to go in there and tear him up.
“The strategy of this fight will be a little bit different. We have some things that we’re planning. But it’s still going to be a war, because I want to be a fan friendly fighter. I’m hoping to steal the show.
“I’m the champion so I feel like I’m in a position to make some great fights in the near future. I want the winner of the World Boxing Super Series 168-pound tournament. I’m honored to be in the same column as the other champions and I can’t wait to get in the ring with them.
“I didn’t overlook Gavril the first time. I knew he was a contender and he came in tough and ready to fight. I know his style now so I’m going to go to work getting better. There were a lot of things I should have done in the first fight. I’m going to take advantage this time.”
RONALD GAVRIL
“I didn’t think he was as good as people said he was going into our first fight. He hadn’t fought any real fighters, so you saw what happened when he went up against one.
“I’m really happy to be here and be in this position for a rematch. I want to thank David Benavidez for agreeing to fight me. I thought that I won the first fight so I knew I wanted this immediately. I earned this rematch.
“I learned a lot from the first fight. I know what I have to do better this time. The strategy will be adjusted and I’ll work even harder in camp to be ready. I’m working on being the best I can mentally and physically.
“He’s a young fighter who still has a lot of things to learn. Right now he’s the champion, but he will have to be ready. This won’t be an easy fight for him. I’m going in there to hurt him and win the fight.
“I can do a lot of things better than in the first fight. I proved that I have the skills in the first match, and now I will improve to get the win. I am here for a reason. It’s not going to be an easy fight for him.
“I’m only thinking about David Benavidez right now. I’m putting everything into this rematch and getting the belt. When I win, the rest will take care of itself.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports  and www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, @MandalayBay and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/ShoBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Premier Boxing Champions is presented by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Baltimore Boxing returns with “Super Brawl of Boxing” January 26

Baltimore, MD (January 9, 2018) – Jake Smith Baltimore Boxing will host their first show of 2018 when they present the “Super Brawl of Boxing” Friday, January 26 at Michael’s Eighth Ave in Glen Burnie, MD.

Tickets from $40 are available by going to Baltimoreboxing.com/events or calling 410-375-9175.  Doors open at 6:30 and the first fight is scheduled for 8:30.
Baltimore Boxing is also pleased to announce that 5-time world champion and the subject of the movie “Bleed for This” Vinny Paz will be on hand to meet fans. Paz is a regular at Baltimore Boxing cards and local fight fans have adopted him as if he were one of their own.
This Olympic style boxing card is headlined by a title unification between Maryland State Middleweight champ Deshawn “Soulsnatcher” Chase of Baltimore Boxing and East Coast belt holder Marquis Moore of Salisbury’s Main Street Boxing Gym. Chase is one of Baltimore’s better amateurs and a regular at Michael’s Eighth while Moore is a well-schooled boxer that believes both titles will be his come the 26th.
This excellent evening of boxing also feature the debut of former NFL player Leon Joe. A standout linebacker at the University of Maryland, Joe was listed by Street & Smith as an All American Honorable mention in 2003. The next year, the Chicago Bears drafted Joe in the 4th round and he played in Super Bowl XLI. He later spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions before playing two years in the Canadian Football League.
Baltimore Boxing’s ‘Super Brawl of Boxing” also serves as a fundraiser for Tina Frost. On October 1, Frost was shot in the head during the mass shooting in Las Vegas. Her right eye was removed and spent time in a rehab facility. Originally from Baltimore, the 28-year-old Frost was working as a CPA for Ernst & Young in San Diego but is back in Maryland with her family. While Frost’s made great progress, she has a long way to and a mound of medical bills that will only continue to grow.
To assist the Frost family, Baltimore Boxing will have a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Those unable to make it are encouraged to donate at https://www.gofundme.com/mary-watson-moreland.
“What happened to Tina is incredibly said,” said Jake Smith. “She was professionally successful and had everything going for her in life. It is a true tragedy what happened to her and all of the other shooting victims in Las Vegas. Baltimore Boxing’s fans have done a great job of getting behind the causes we support and we hope everybody is able to come out on the 26th to help raise money for the Frost family.”
Tickets from $40 are available by going to Baltimoreboxing.com/events or calling 410-375-9175. Doors open at 6:30 and the first fight is scheduled for 8:30.

HUMBERTO “TITO” VELASCO RETURNS FEB 17 IN EL PASO, TX

EL PASO, TX (January 9, 2018) Prince Ranch Boxing’s super middleweight prospect, Humberto “Tito” Velasco (18-1-1 12KOs) will return to action on February 17th in El Paso, Texas as he takes on Thomas “Top Dogg” Williams Jr. (20-3-1 14KOs) on the undercard of an event headlined by Devon Alexander vs. Victor Ortiz which will be broadcast globally on FOX.
“It is an honor to fight on such a big platform and against an opponent who has fought for a world title” said Humberto Velasco in regard to his fight. “I have a great team around me in Prince Ranch Boxing and Sugar Promotions that supports me, and puts me in the best situation. I can’t wait to show the fans what I am capable of.”
“Humberto Velasco is an exciting fighter, who the fans love to watch and will continue to watch once they get more familiar with him, “said Greg Hanney, President of Prince Ranching Boxing. “Our goal is to keep him very active and get him into a big fight.”
“We have done our homework and we know Velasco is the type of talent who can help Sugar Promotions.” Oscar Vazquez, CEO of Sugar Promotions stated. “We are ready to make a run for a world title in the coming year, but we are not looking past Thomas Williams Jr, who is a very talented fighter in his own right. This is the type of fight that could end up on many people’s “fighter of the year” list. We believe a great performance by Velasco will take him to the next level.

USA vs. MEXICO IN PRIMETIME DUELS ON FOX!

 
“Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great” Clash in Battle of Former Welterweight World Champions
 
Plus! Undefeated Contender Caleb Plant Duels Rogelio “Porky” Medina in Super Middleweight Showdown in Co-Feature
 
Photo by Suzanne Teresa – Premier Boxing Champions
Live in Primetime on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas on
Saturday, February 17 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
EL PASO, TX (January 8, 2018) – “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great”headline a show topped by two USA vs. Mexico battles as the former welterweight champions meet in the 12-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Feb. 17 from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas with televised coverage starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
In the co-main event unbeaten contender Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant will battle Rogelio “Porky” Medina in a 12-round 168-pound world title eliminator.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60, $40, $25 and will go on sale Friday. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Also on the card, Tony Harrison (25-2, 20 KOs) takes on Jorge Cota (27-2, 24 KOs) in a super welterweight showdown and Karlos Balderas, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, will appear in a lightweight special attraction.
“This is a classic crossroads match in the truest sense. Both Devon Alexander and Victor Ortiz are battle-tested in one of the toughest, deepest divisions in boxing,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Alexander has overcome some serious health issues and is looking to regain the welterweight championship. Ortiz, also a former champion, has always come to fight and doesn’t back down from anyone. It promises to be an entertaining match for the fans in attendance at Don Haskins Center and those who tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes.”
Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, has split time between boxing and acting throughout his recent career and brings a certain flare every time he steps into the ring. The 30-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto on April 16, 2011. Five months later he lost the title to Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by knockout. Ortiz, 30, suffered a knockout loss to Andre Berto in 2016 on FOX and bounced back with a knockout victory over Saul Corral in his last fight on July 30 on FS1.
“I’m ready to give all I have to defeat Devon Alexander and get my crown back,” said Ortiz. “My priority is to make a strong comeback and putting myself in a position to have my straps once again. I demonstrated what I was made of and did what I said I was going to do in my last fight. I’m facing a great fighter in Devon Alexander and someone I’ve known since we were kids. I don’t hate him, but I will not be his friend on fight night and he won’t be mine. I’m ready to prove everyone wrong starting on Feb. 17.”
Alexander (27-4, 14 KOs) emerged on the scene with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey for the welterweight title in 2012. He defended the title once before losing it to Shawn Porter in 2013. Since then, the 30-year-old Alexander of St. Louis, Missouri has been on a mission to regain the title. After losing to Amir Khan and Aaron Martinez, Alexander suffered another setback when he sought treatment for an addiction to painkillers. Fully healthy for the first time in three years, Alexander returned to the ring with a unanimous decision victory over Walter Castillo on FS1 on Nov. 21.
“I’m excited to get back in there against a fighter like Victor Ortiz,” said Alexander. “We’ve known each other a long time but never fought in the amateurs, so this should be interesting. My speed, quickness and smarts will win me this fight. Victor checks out sometimes when he can’t hit you, so my skills will be the difference. I’m ready for any challenge that’s brought my way. When I’m 100 percent, nobody can beat me.”
Plant (16-0, 10 KOs) won eight of his first nine fights by knockout, demonstrating power in both hands to go along with his boxing abilities. The 25-year-old climbed into the top ten of the 168-pound rankings with his last victory – a unanimous decision over Andrew Hernandez in Las Vegas on Sept. 8. Medina represents a major step up for Plant and will give him an indication of just where the Ashland, Tennessee native stands in the division as he looks to become a mandatory challenger for the IBF title.
The 29-year-old Medina (38-8, 32 KOs) has squared off against some of the toughest boxers in the division, including current champion David Benavidez and former champions James DeGale and Badou Jack. Fighting out of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico lost by knockout to Benavidez on May 20, and bounced back with a knockout victory over Daniel Eduardo Yocupicio on Sept. 1.
The FOX prime time broadcast will kick off a full night of boxing, leading into a doubleheader on SHOWTIME that features two-division world champion Danny Garcia versus Brandon Rios and 168-pound champion David Benavidez defending his title in a rematch against Ronald Gavril from Las Vegas.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Thomas LaManna battles Gabriel Bracero for WBC Fecarbox Welterweight title in inaugural main event of Boardwalk Boxing on Saturday, February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City

Anthony Young fights Khiary Gray in co-feature
ATLANTIC CITY – January 8, 2018 – Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will headline the inaugural Boardwalk Boxing series when he takes the battle-tested veteran Gabriel Bracero in a ten-round welterweight bout for the WBC Fecarbox welterweight title on Saturday, February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.
The bout will be the main event of a huge night of boxing promoted by Rising Star Promotions
The new Boardwalk Boxing series, which was announced last week, promised high-quality matchups, while featuring the best local fighters.
LaManna, 26, of Millville, New Jersey has an impressive mark of 25-2 with nine knockouts.
The popular LaManna has led the revival of boxing in Atlantic City as his Rising Star Promotions has become the preeminent promoter in Atlantic City.
LaManna consistently has performed as a headliner in front of sell out crowds is eager to thrill fans, and potentially notch the biggest win of his career.
“This is a crossroads fight.  He needs a win over me to stay relevant, and I need a win over him to be taken serious,” said LaManna.  “Bracero has fought some top guys.  His losses have been to world champions and Gold Medal winners.  He has been around the block.”
“I want to start 2018 with a good test.  I want to test myself.  When I go through a hard camp, dieting and focusing, I want it to be worth it.”
“This should be a great atmosphere as he is a popular fighter like myself.  A win over him will give me an opportunity as I will move up in the ratings.  This is a make or break year, and a win will put me in there with other contenders.”
LaManna will celebrate his 7th year as a professional, as he has wins over Kendal Mena (20-3), as well as winning the WBC Silver Latino and WBC FECARBOX Welterweight titles with a ten-round unanimous decision over rugged George Sosa.
In his last bout, LaManna defended the WBC FECARBOX title with a ten-round unanimous decision over Samuel Amoako on November 28th in Atlantic City.
This will be LaManna’s 18th fight in Atlantic City.
Bracero of Brooklyn, New York has an impressive mark of 24-3 with five knockouts.
Bracero, who will be 38 on February 14th has faced and defeated some impressive foes over his 17 year-career.
Bracero win his first 18 bouts which were highlighted by wins over Winston Mathis (6-0), Danny O’Connor (14-0), Guillermo Valdes (12-3), Jermaine White (17-4), former world totle challenger Dmitry Salita (35-1-1), and a sensational 1st round stoppage over O’Connor (26-2) in the rematch.
Bracero is coming off a ten-round unanimous decision defeat to former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi on July 30, 2016 in Brooklyn, New York
“This will be a good fight.  He is a tough kid.  He is tall, and I will get into the best shape possible,” said Bracero.
“I am excited to finally be fighting in Atlantic City.  I have family there, plus my fans from Brooklyn can drive there and spend a nice weekend. “
“This fight is a true crossroads battle. He is looking to make his name off of me, and I am focusing on winning his WBC Fecarbox title.  A win will get me back into the bigger fights.
Also announced is a terrific co-feature bout that will see Anthony “Juice” Young of Atlantic City battling Khiary Gray or Worcester, Massachusetts.
Young, 29, has a record of 18-2 with six knockouts.
The seven-year professional will be looking for his eighth consecutive victory.  The Atlantic City favorite has a quality win over Jose Javier Claderon (4-1), and will be making his 12th start in his hometown.
Pitts has an impressive mark of 15-3 with eleven knockouts.
The 25 year-old New Englander won his first 13 bouts.  The four-year professional is a former UBF International Super Welterweight champion, and in his last bout he won the Interim New England Super Welterweight title with an eight-round majority decision over Greg Jackson on December 7, 2017 in Lincoln, Rhode Island.
There will be an announcement about the full undercard shortly.
Tickets are available for $155, $80 and $55, and can be purchased online at www.risingboxingpromotions.com.
This event is sponsored by Acos Energy, Designer Wraps, Eat Clean Bro, Calvi Electric, and Alpha Academy.
For more information, ‘Like’ Rising Star Promotions on Facebook.
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UNIFIED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION CLARESSA SHIELDS REFLECTS ON OLYMPIC GLORY AND PREDICTS SUCCESSFUL 2018 IN SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO FEATURE

 “I did something that made history and people are sitting there acting like I don’t even exist” – Claressa Shields

 

Shields Prepares To Defend Her World Titles Against Undefeated Tori Nelson This Friday, Jan. 12 At 10 p.m. ET/PT Live On SHOWTIME®

 

Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: http://s.sho.com/2CIfxwr

 

 

WHAT: Unified champion and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields reflects on her remarkable amateur career and forecasts success in 2018, starting when she defends her belts against undefeated mandatory challenger Tori Nelson this Friday at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME.

 

“I want to go down in history as the best women’s fighter ever, and how do you do that?” Shields ponders as she explains her decision to turn pro. “I did something that made history and people are sitting there acting like I don’t even exist.”

 

Shields (4-0, 2 KOs) takes viewers through a day of training camp in her hometown of Flint, Michigan, where she discusses growing up in the city that defines her and predicts a dominating professional career in multiple weight classes.

 

“Once I beat [Nelson], I’m calling out all the top girls. If you think you can beat me, let’s make it happen. I’m from 154 to 168. After this fight, I’m dropping down to 160 and I’m kicking everybody’s ass at 160,” Shields says. “And after that, I’m going to go to 154 and who’s the pound-for-pound right now? Cecilia Braekhus? She got to see me too.”

 

The 22-year-old defends her titles against mandatory challenger Tori Nelson (17-0-3, 2 KOs) this Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera Strong to finish because he eats his spinach

 
Undefeated Hartford light heavyweight prospect headlines vs. Kevin Cobbs
“New England’s Future 5”
Feb. 10 in Worcester, MA
Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera
(Photo by @Bonesprostudio)
WORCESTER, Mass. (January 8, 2018) – One of the most popular New England boxing prospects, undefeated Hartford (CT) light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (5-0, 4 KOs), will headline his third show Saturday night, February 10, at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.
In the fifth installment of the “New England’s Future” series, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), the 27-year-old Rivera meets Kevin “KRAY 2 UNKL” Cobbs (10-2, 4 KOs), fighting out of Burlington (VT), for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) New England title in the eight-round main event.
Rivera, who was a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, is coming off a sensational second-round knockout of 146-fight veteran Roberto Valenzuela this past December 9 in Hampton, New Hampshire.
“I am excited to have Richie boxing for the UBF New England title so early in his pro career,”” said promoter Jose Antonio Rivera, the retired 3-time, 2-division world champion. “This is the third time we’ve had the privilege of him fighting on one of our cards. He fought in the main event of our last show (Oct.) at the DCU Center. Rivera looks better and sharper every time I watch him fight. I see big things coming for him. He has the tools and discipline a trainer looks for and a boxer needs to become world champion. The sky is the limit for Richard and, for now, we’re grateful to play a small part to help develop his professional career.”
Rivera has successfully marketed his Popeye persona during his young pro boxing career, wearing a sailor’s cap into the ring with a traditional Popeye-like pipe dangling in his mouth. “There are several reasons for my nickname, ‘Popeye’, but when I was very young,” Rivera explained, “I had abnormally large forearms. It just stuck with me through the years, when people referred to me in the gym, so I’ve run with it. I’m bringing life back to Hartford with patience, all over New England, with patience, perseverance and style. I live in the moment.”
Although he didn’t win many major awards or tournaments as an amateur boxer, Rivera gained invaluable experience boxing many of the best amateurs in New England and in national events, as well as sparring with the likes of former world champions Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Chad Dawson and Joe Smith, Jr. He also learned from time spent in the ring with former title challengers Israel “Pito” Cardona and John Scully.
“I took my time turning pro because I didn’t have a support system to get me to the next level,” Rivera noted. “I was insecure. The positive feedback I received from fighters I sparred fed into my confidence. Now, in only my sixth pro fight, I will be headlining for the third time, and fighting for my first title. I can’t thank the Riveras (Jose and his son, A.J.) enough for what they’ve done for me. They’ve believed in me.”
At first, Rivera was somewhat reluctant to fight the more experienced Cobb but, after doing some research, he accepted the challenge. “I was a little nervous at first,” he admitted. “Some were questioning if I was ready to step up to fight him. I did some research: he didn’t have a bigger amateur career, or fought more six or eight rounds fights than me. And I was the sparring partner for the first pro to beat him, Tyron Burris(TKO2 in 2012). I’m ready! I’m 27 and need a fight like this.”
Worcester’s two-time national amateur champion Bobby “BH3” Harris, III meets Brazilian middleweight Saul Almeida (0-8-1) in the four-round co-featured event.
Fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are rising New Haven (CT) super middleweight prospect Elvis Figueroa (3-0, 1 KO), a three-time USA Boxing Nationals Championship gold medalist, vs. TBA, Worcester featherweight Ranse Andino (1-0) vs. Alex Montes (1-2-1), of Lawrence (MA), Danbury (CT) welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0) vs. Puerto Rican invader Alexander “El Bravo” Picot (2-4-1), Southbridge (MA) welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (3-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Nick Peralta, of Lawrence, undefeated Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Ray “Bazooka” Graceski (5-0, 3 KOs). vs. Hartford’s pro-debuting Paul Bansiak, Hartford junior middleweight Jose “Rated R” Rivera (4-1, 3 KOs) vs. Troy “Omar KO Artist” Artis(4-7-1 (3 KOs), Springfield welterweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (2-0) vs. Roger Blankenship (1-2), undefeated Puerto Rican middleweight Jelame Garcia (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Brazilian Rodrigo Almeida 1-7), Meriden (CT) bantamweight James Aquino (6-0, 6 KOs), 2016 New England Golden Gloves champion, vs. Luis Rivera (3-3) and Hartford’s pro-debuting welterweight Joseph Goss vs. Seth Basler (0-3).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout 7 p.m. ET.
 
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_

“Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great” Clash in Battle of Former Welterweight World Champions

USA vs. MEXICO IN PRIMETIME DUELS ON FOX!
 
 
Plus! Undefeated Contender Caleb Plant Duels Rogelio “Porky” Medina in Super Middleweight Showdown in Co-Feature
 
Live in Primetime on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas on
Saturday, February 17 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
EL PASO, TX (January 8, 2018) – “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great” headline a show topped by two USA vs. Mexico battles as the former welterweight champions meet in the 12-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Feb. 17 from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas with televised coverage starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
In the co-main event unbeaten contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant will battle Rogelio “Porky” Medina in a 12-round 168-pound world title eliminator.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60, $40, $25 and will go on sale Friday. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Also on the card, Tony Harrison (25-2, 20 KOs) takes on Jorge Cota (27-2, 24 KOs) in a super welterweight showdown and Karlos Balderas, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, will appear in a lightweight special attraction.
“This is a classic crossroads match in the truest sense. Both Devon Alexander and Victor Ortiz are battle-tested in one of the toughest, deepest divisions in boxing,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Alexander has overcome some serious health issues and is looking to regain the welterweight championship. Ortiz, also a former champion, has always come to fight and doesn’t back down from anyone. It promises to be an entertaining match for the fans in attendance at Don Haskins Center and those who tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes.”
Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, has split time between boxing and acting throughout his recent career and brings a certain flare every time he steps into the ring. The 30-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto on April 16, 2011. Five months later he lost the title to Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by knockout. Ortiz, 30, suffered a knockout loss to Andre Berto in 2016 on FOX and bounced back with a knockout victory over Saul Corral in his last fight on July 30 on FS1.
“I’m ready to give all I have to defeat Devon Alexander and get my crown back,” said Ortiz. “My priority is to make a strong comeback and putting myself in a position to have my straps once again. I demonstrated what I was made of and did what I said I was going to do in my last fight. I’m facing a great fighter in Devon Alexander and someone I’ve known since we were kids. I don’t hate him, but I will not be his friend on fight night and he won’t be mine. I’m ready to prove everyone wrong starting on Feb. 17.”
Alexander (27-4, 14 KOs) emerged on the scene with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey for the welterweight title in 2012. He defended the title once before losing it to Shawn Porter in 2013. Since then, the 30-year-old Alexander of St. Louis, Missouri has been on a mission to regain the title. After losing to Amir Khan and Aaron Martinez, Alexander suffered another setback when he sought treatment for an addiction to painkillers. Fully healthy for the first time in three years, Alexander returned to the ring with a unanimous decision victory over Walter Castillo on FS1 onNov. 21.
“I’m excited to get back in there against a fighter like Victor Ortiz,” said Alexander. “We’ve known each other a long time but never fought in the amateurs, so this should be interesting. My speed, quickness and smarts will win me this fight. Victor checks out sometimes when he can’t hit you, so my skills will be the difference. I’m ready for any challenge that’s brought my way. When I’m 100 percent, nobody can beat me.”
Plant (16-0, 10 KOs) won eight of his first nine fights by knockout, demonstrating power in both hands to go along with his boxing abilities. The 25-year-old climbed into the top ten of the 168-pound rankings with his last victory – a unanimous decision over Andrew Hernandez in Las Vegas on Sept. 8. Medina represents a major step up for Plant and will give him an indication of just where the Ashland, Tennessee native stands in the division as he looks to become a mandatory challenger for the IBF title.
The 29-year-old Medina (38-8, 32 KOs) has squared off against some of the toughest boxers in the division, including current champion David Benavidez and former champions James DeGale and Badou Jack. Fighting out of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico lost by knockout to Benavidez on May 20, and bounced back with a knockout victory over Daniel Eduardo Yocupicio on Sept. 1.
The FOX prime time broadcast will kick off a full night of boxing, leading into a doubleheader on SHOWTIME that features two-division world champion Danny Garcia versus Brandon Rios and 168-pound champion David Benavidez defending his title in a rematch against Ronald Gavril from Las Vegas.
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available atwww.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.